National Guard Troops Begin Patrols in Memphis Amid Crime Surge

UPDATE: National Guard troops have begun patrolling in Memphis, Tennessee, marking a significant development in President Donald Trump’s controversial federal task force aimed at addressing crime. This deployment took place on September 29, 2023, alongside local police as the city grapples with rising violent crime rates.

Early reports confirmed that at least nine National Guard members were visible patrolling near the iconic Bass Pro Shops at the Pyramid. They were accompanied by a Memphis police officer and interacted with visitors, posing for photos, as concerns about public safety loom large in the city.

Memphis Police Chief Cerelyn “CJ” Davis stated during a recent NAACP forum that the presence of Guard personnel is intended to assist with traffic management and visibility, not law enforcement. “From a public safety standpoint, we’re trying to utilize Guard personnel in non-enforcement types of capacities,” Davis emphasized, aiming to prevent the perception of over-militarization in neighborhoods.

Memphis Mayor Paul Young, who did not request the Guard’s deployment, expressed a desire for the task force to focus on violent offenders rather than create an intimidating atmosphere for the community. This comes as Memphis continues to confront challenges related to violent crime, including carjackings and assaults, despite some improvements in murder statistics this year.

Since the task force began operations, federal authorities report that more than 2,800 traffic citations and hundreds of arrests have been made, including four on homicide charges, according to the U.S. Marshals Service.

Complicating the situation, a federal judge in Illinois recently blocked the deployment of National Guard troops in Chicago, citing a lack of evidence for a “danger of rebellion” and reinforcing the argument that such deployments may infringe upon state rights. The ruling has sparked a political and legal battle over the president’s authority to send troops into urban areas, with Governor JB Pritzker of Illinois declaring victory for his state’s officials.

As the October 23 deadline for the Illinois order approaches, the fate of the 500 troops activated from Texas and Illinois remains uncertain. Reports indicate they are stationed at a U.S. Army Reserve Center in Elwood, with some deployed outside an ICE facility amidst ongoing protests.

Meanwhile, deployment plans for troops in Portland are on hold due to legal challenges, reflecting the contentious nature of these federal actions across the U.S. The situation in Memphis highlights the urgent need for effective crime intervention while balancing community safety and civil rights.

With escalating tensions and legal actions unfolding, all eyes will remain on Memphis and other cities affected by similar deployments. As local officials navigate this complex landscape, citizens are left to ponder the implications for their safety and community dynamics.

Stay tuned for more updates as this developing story progresses.